Modular Floating Solar Fountain Layout for Shape Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floating solar fountains fix all solar cells on a circular disk, resulting in a single shape and wastage of substrate during production, and are not suitable for small-scale installations due to their size and maintenance complexities.
Innovation Solution
A floating waterscape apparatus with a floating body, power generation modules comprising independent photovoltaic units that protrude from the body, and a water spraying component powered by these units, allowing for multiple shapes and reduced substrate waste, with support arms and pivot connectors for adjustable positioning of photovoltaic units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If solar cells are fixed on a circular disk, then the fountain can be made simple in shape, but substrate is wasted during production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar cell array into multiple independent modules that can be arranged in different configurations. Instead of fixing all solar cells on a single circular disk, the invention segments them into separate units that can be positioned independently on the floating body, reducing substrate waste while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjustable and rotatable support structures that allow the solar cell modules to be dynamically repositioned. This enables the same hardware components to create different shapes and configurations, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated circular disk designs and reducing substrate waste.
2Adaptability or versatility
If floating solar fountains are designed for small-scale installations, then they become suitable for ordinary families, but existing designs are huge and difficult to install and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fountain into modular components including separate solar cell modules, pump units, and floating body sections. This segmentation allows the system to be scaled to different sizes for various applications, from small family pools to larger installations, and simplifies installation and maintenance by allowing individual components to be replaced or adjusted independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal connection interfaces and standardized mounting structures that work across different scale configurations. The same basic module design can be used for both small and large installations, reducing complexity and making the system easier to install and maintain regardless of scale.
3Power
If external power supply cables are used, then the fountain can be connected to power source, but potential safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-powered operation where solar cells directly charge a battery system that powers the pump and control electronics. This eliminates the need for external power supply cables and connection to mains electricity, removing the safety hazards associated with electrical wiring in water environments while maintaining full power supply capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the creation of diverse shapes and reduces substrate waste by using independent photovoltaic units, eliminating the need for external power supplies and lowering maintenance costs, making it suitable for various small-scale installations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first photovoltaic unit for converting light energy into electric energy
Implementation Method 2
the floating body causes at least part of the first photovoltaic unit to be above the water surface
Data Source
AI summary
A floating waterscape apparatus having a floating body, at least one power generation module and a water spraying component is disclosed. Each power generation module comprises at least one first photovoltaic unit, and each first photovoltaic unit protrudes from the floating body and has a gap with the floating body when the power generation module is installed on the floating body; each power generation module being installed on the floating body and powered by the first photovoltaic unit; wherein the floating body causes at least part of the first photovoltaic unit to be above the water surface and at least part of the water spraying component to be below the water surface. Through a plurality of first photovoltaic units independent of the floating body to supply power to the water spraying component, the floating waterscape apparatus can be made more shapes.